Juan de Pablo's Vision to Transform NYU into a Global Leader in Science and Technology

Renowned Scientist Juan de Pablo Joins NYU to Lead Innovation and Research

Juan de Pablo, a renowned scientist and expert in microchip technology, has been recruited from the University of Chicago to New York University (NYU) as the executive dean of the Tandon School of Engineering and the university’s inaugural executive vice president for Global Science and Technology. With over 650 publications, dozens of patents, and a career spanning prestigious institutions like the University of Wisconsin and UC Berkeley, De Pablo brings both scientific expertise and leadership skills to NYU. His roles at NYU are crucial for advancing the university’s goal to become a global leader in discovery, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Notably, since 2014, NYU has risen from 38th to 15th in the National Science Foundation's research ranking. De Pablo splits his time between his home near Washington Square Park and his office at NYU’s Engineering Campus in Brooklyn.

In his new role, De Pablo emphasizes the importance of breaking down boundaries between disciplines to create a unified, interdisciplinary approach. His primary responsibility is to unite various sciences and engineering fields, ensuring the recruitment of top talent to NYU and New York. He outlined his strategy, focusing on three key pillars: attracting the best minds in science and technology, ensuring the resources necessary for their success, and fostering a leading innovation ecosystem in New York. While Silicon Valley and Boston currently dominate this field, NYU aims to become the foremost hub for innovation. De Pablo also stressed the importance of training future generations of thinkers to ensure the continued growth and success of the initiative.

Regarding how success should be measured for the university’s growing science and technology initiative, De Pablo emphasized that impact, rather than prestige or rankings, is the key metric. The goal is to produce field-defining discoveries in areas such as medicine, biology, chemistry, and engineering transformative advancements like quantum communication systems or breakthroughs in immune system engineering. He highlighted NYU’s recent recruitment of pioneering scientists in fields such as immune system engineering, noting that their work could redefine treatments for cancer, autoimmune diseases, and inflammation. He expressed confidence that these innovations will significantly impact society within the next decade.

De Pablo believes that success will be measured by NYU's ability to attract outstanding leaders, foster groundbreaking research, and deploy technologies that benefit society. This, he believes, will elevate both NYU and New York City to a leading position in science and technology, securing their place at the forefront of global innovation. He expressed his excitement about the influx of ideas and leadership to New York, drawing parallels to the energy seen in Silicon Alley in the late 90s. He highlighted New York’s magnetic pull for talent, emphasizing how the city’s vibrant atmosphere and innovative spirit make it an ideal environment for scientific growth.

Reflecting on his move to NYU, De Pablo mentioned that, while he was happy at the University of Chicago, he was ultimately drawn to NYU’s ambitious vision for science and technology. He acknowledged that the scope and potential impact of NYU’s plans were too compelling to ignore, describing the opportunity as "once-in-a-lifetime." When asked about staying optimistic in academia, De Pablo credited the energy and enthusiasm of young students and faculty as his primary source of motivation. He described the privilege of working with young innovators, noting that their passion and optimism help him stay focused and inspired, despite the challenges of academia.

Following his role in hosting the 2024 International Conference on AI in Finance, De Pablo shared his insights on the rapid advancements of AI and its transformative impact across various fields. He emphasized the need to understand and effectively use AI to enhance current practices. At NYU Tandon, De Pablo's research focuses on leveraging AI in the discovery of new materials. By using sophisticated mathematical algorithms and advanced computational models, his team has developed materials that enable the fabrication of microchips at smaller scales. He highlighted the role of AI in identifying patterns in materials that are not easily detectable with traditional methods, aiming to accelerate the discovery process and improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness in material science.

Looking ahead, De Pablo envisions that, in 15 to 20 years, NYU Tandon and New York will be recognized globally as a premier destination for science and technology. He aims for a collaborative ecosystem where universities, national labs, and companies work together seamlessly, with joint appointments and shared resources. De Pablo hopes to see thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems, innovation hubs, and high-tech industries driving job creation and economic growth. His ultimate goal is for New York to be at the forefront of developing and deploying groundbreaking technologies, marking a lasting legacy in the science and technology sectors.

Editor's Note

Juan de Pablo's appointment as executive dean of NYU's Tandon School of Engineering and inaugural executive vice president for Global Science and Technology marks a pivotal moment for NYU. With extensive expertise in microchip technology and a strategic vision, De Pablo aims to break down disciplinary boundaries, attract top talent, and foster an innovative ecosystem. His focus on impactful research and leveraging AI positions NYU and New York City as global leaders in science and technology. De Pablo's commitment to nurturing young talent and creating a collaborative environment will drive significant progress, ensuring NYU's lasting legacy in global innovation.

Skoobuzz sees this appointment as a new era of growth and excellence for NYU, setting the stage for groundbreaking discoveries and innovation.